88 Counties in
88 Days in 2024

Our Mission

We are formed to lower the number of suicides committed in the state of Ohio. To shore up the fabric of our society relating to mental health. To lessen the stigma of needing help.

Our Why

When we met, we were five years old. I ended up being the best-man in his wedding. He was the "brother" that lived, literally, a couple stone-throws away. He lived on the other side of that field. I remember through the years on Christmas mornings, looking over at his house to see who got up first, in the pitched darkness, to open their presents. All of this happened when there was a little more wholesomeness on our ol' planet earth. The times are a lot harder on all of us, now, than they used to be.

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About the Founder

Dean Popiel sings with the honest voice of a soldier and a pilgrim, a traveler into worlds where life itself is on the line. His songs stand up and announce their arrival into the fabric of our culture. It soon becomes obvious they may become as well known as the best rock anthems of our time. In his work we find both transcendent melodies and thoughts of significance. His songs draw from the deepest well of human experience; the loss of brothers in arms, the greatness of true companionship and the ultimate dependence on divine providence.

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Testimonial

Dean Popiel is a man of passion, integrity and heart.  This is evident in his song-writing, his smooth and gentle vocals, and even in the first few minutes of speaking with him.  His own experiences with trauma and mental health issues have lead him down a path of genuine concern for others.  When he played at the Sharon Showcase music and art festival this year, I watched as several attendees stopped in their tracks to listen to Dean’s uplifting message and beautiful melodies.  The compliments have continued to come in through the summer. “His music was so touching!” “I’d like to see  him again.” And “he seemed like he was singing directly to me.”  What makes Dean special is not just his musicianship, but his desire to reach out with his special gift.  In my work with the non-profit, Access the Arts, I find it rare to find someone with both of these qualities, and I am grateful that he is willing to collaborate with AtA in our common goal to help others heal through the Arts.

- Jane Back, President, Access the Arts